31 Jan 201905:04am IST

Title contenders Churchill Brothers FC and Real Kashmir face off in big clash at Tilak Maidan

VASCO: The current I-League season is surely the best season for Churchill Brothers FC who have made their comeback into the top flight football following their absence from National football three years back. The Red Machines have managed to silence the critics and pre-season expert reviews with their performance so far! They are currently on second spot with 28 points tied with Real Kashmir who are on third place with equal points, two points behind leaders Chennai City.

Like Churchill Brothers, so has Chennai City and Real Kashmir managed to do as they are all in contention for the title —the league has never failed to surprise us.

However, Chennai City’s 0-1 defeat against Real Kashmir threw the title race wide open as with as many as four teams could possibly lift the title. However, with over six games to go, anything is possible in the unexpected league which actually went down to the wire in the last edition which saw Minerva Punjab grab the title on the last day of the league.

But with the present run in the league, Churchill Brothers FC have a clear chance to lay the hands on the title for the third time after they last won it in the year 2013.

The Varca-based team have been performing as a unit showing meticulous game plan and have been delivering when it mattered most under Romanian coach Petre Gigiu.

The foreign strength

The Red Machines have been exceptional on the attacking front with Dawda Ceesay and Willis Plaza proving their attacking worth in front of the goal. The East Bengal flop has overturned his last season’s fortunes with the Red Machines netting 15 goals in 14 games. The striker has been ably supported by Dawda Ceesay who has nine assists to his name with also three goals.

The Dawda Ceesay- A Wolfre —Plaza combination has been a real threat to the opponents despite the latter not enjoying better game, but his goal scoring instincts has made him a worthy signing to the club.

The strong midfield

With the upfront doing their role, one cannot deny the unending support and dominating display from the Red Machines midfield marshalled by Khalid Aucho who with his trickery and pace outsmarts the opponents which simplifies in building up the Red Machines attack. The defensive midfielder made the best use of his physicality in commanding the heart of the midfield. He also registered an assist and has two goals to his name. His partnership with N Novakovic and Richard Costa has made it even easier for the Gigui and the strike force in getting the goals as well providing support in Red Machines defence.

Vital clash

From now on, every match shall be equally important for Churchill Brothers FC if they are eyeing the title. Their clash against debutants Real Kashmir wouldn't be an easy affair given the fact they have beaten the leaders few days ago and have been unbeaten in their last ten games. But coach Gigiu seemed all set to face the Kashmir side as the title race heats up in the I-League.